Guest Column: The library — your new best study buddy
Margy MacMillan
Guest Columnist
What can the library do for you during exams?
First, we have extended our open hours. From Dec. 2 to Dec. 21 we’ll be open until 10 p.m. every night — we open at 7:45 a.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends. (Someone once asked me if we had longer hours during exams — they might seem longer, but they’re only 60 minutes, same as always.)
On Dec. 22 we’ll be open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Dec. 23 we’ll be open 8:30 a.m. to noon.
And, while Student Learning Services drop-in times in the library finish up when classes end, you can get help with those final papers and study tips in their office (T123) until Dec. 21.
Second, we have quiet study areas: the further away from the main doors, the quieter the library gets. The new super silent computer lab near the media desk has 31 new computers, and is almost never full.
Please remember this is a stressful time for everyone and respect others’ rights to study quietly too. Remember, library before the exam, The Hub after. Best not to get them confused.
We have places where you can go over materials with your classmates — another effective way to study. To reserve the rooms and booths, register with the media desk and then you can book them online. See mtroyal.ca/Library/Using/BookGroupSpace/index.htm for details.
Third, sometimes what you need most is a temporary diversion. Did you know the library had movies like The Reader, and TV shows on DVD too, like The Wire? We have popular fiction and non-fiction for your reading pleasure — check the catalogue or browse the paperback racks and our ‘zine collection for a quick hit of recreational reading.
Remember to renew books so fines don’t pile up while you’re away. Maybe clear up any fines, before they get turned over to the fees office at the end of exams.
And finally, follow us on Twitter @MRULibrary for hints on the most quiet times and spaces, or alerts on the reserve book you’ve been waiting for. Maybe even share a study tip or two of your own!
Margy MacMillan is the dedicated librarian for Communications students and purveyor of delicious cookies.